This week The Times will publish Q&As with the four candidates seeking the Cullman County Commission Chairman seat. Today, Philip Widner. 

Do you support the 1-cent sales tax for education? If the referendum does not pass would you consider the county commissioners approving a sales tax for education?

I support letting the people vote on it. This is how it should have been done from the beginning. If the referendum does not pass, then the decision has been made. Once the issue has been voted on, it would be wrong to go against what the people have decided. I am elected to be a representative of the people.

What are your thoughts on changing Cullman County’s governance to a 5-person board?

I support changing to a 5-person board with 4 part-time commissioners and staggered terms. Benefits to the county are better representation for everyone, costs would be less considering salary, benefits, insurance, etc., required for full-time versus part-time; this compensation is similar to other local part-time officials, and a more diverse group of possible candidates to choose from, business men and women, educators, professionals, farmers, bankers, doctors, etc; individuals who can bring different areas of experience to the commission, helping it to operate more effectively and efficiently.

 Should Cullman County have home rule authority; why/why not?

Home rule is the power and authority of county governments to control their own affairs and is limited by the Alabama Constitution. Municipalities have the power to pass ordinances for things as major as zoning land or increasing taxes to as simple as spraying for insects. Alabama counties have no general grant of power in the constitution and thus, little power over their own affairs. This is the reason Alabamians find themselves voting on bingo regulations or sewer bonds for counties they’ve never even visited. Some home rule may be okay, however we must be very careful and cautious.

Other than roads, what is one specific area that you believe the county commission needs to work on?

Unity within the county ranks and with other organizations/municipalities. Improve on the ability to work together and with others for the betterment of the citizens. Increasing to a 5-person board will help promote a more stable working relationship. When this occurs and elected officials begin working together toward common goals it will spread through all departments. You will begin to see better morale, a healthier work environment and better employee productivity. Budgets will go farther, wasteful spending will begin to decrease, roads will be repaired correctly and transparency will no longer be a problem.

 What makes you the best candidate for the office of County Commission Chairman?

I have the most related experience, education and ability necessary for the job… most importantly, I have the desire and responsibility to do it right. Over 26 years of governmental experience in a career requiring a degree in engineering and directly involved with County Commissions. I’m a licensed engineer in Alabama and know how to stop wasteful spending, repair roads correctly and better manage our tax dollars. I will get our county’s “financial house” back in order and be completely transparent in the process. I have no political agendas, just honest, fair, experienced representation for every citizen.